# thistle

/ˈθɪsəɫ/ (US) · /θˈɪsəl/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thistle
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a wild plant with sharp, prickly leaves and purple flowers. It is the national symbol of Scotland.

For teachers: any of various prickly composite plants, especially of the genera Cirsium or Carduus, characterized by leaves with sharp spines and dense flower heads.

## Examples

- Be careful not to touch the thistle because it is very prickly.
- The hiker accidentally brushed against a tall thistle and felt the sharp spines through his trousers.
- In the neglected corner of the garden, a solitary thistle rose above the weeds, its vibrant purple crown contrasting sharply with its formidable, jagged foliage.

## Usage notes

- Often used symbolically in heraldry or literature to represent Scotland or resilience.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.